Traumatic Brain Injuries and Workers Compensation in California

 Posted on April 30, 2021 in Workers' Compensation

Our brains control everything from walking to problem-solving. When the brain is damaged in a work accident, the worker may be left with severe symptoms that significantly impact his or her life. Fortunately, most injured workers are entitled to compensation through their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. Unfortunately, obtaining workers’ compensation is sometimes a difficult process. In situations like these, a workers’ compensation lawyer can be an extremely useful asset.

Symptoms of a Brain Injury Can Be Subtle at First

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is directly damaged by an object penetrating the skull or, more commonly, when a force causes the brain to strike the inside of the skull. Falling, being struck by objects, and equipment-related accidents are some of the most common on-the-job causes of TBI. One factor that can make TBI especially dangerous is that many TBI sufferers do not immediately realize how badly they are injured. Some symptoms are delayed by hours, days, or longer. Symptoms of TBI often include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Vomiting
• Ringing in the ears
• Slurred speech
• Disorientation
• Cognitive and behavioral changes
• Sleeping problems
• Mood swings or depression

TBI Can Lead to Profound Financial Losses

A traumatic brain injury can become a major financial burden. Usually, doctors use a CT scan or MRI to diagnose a brain injury and look for brain bleeds. The sufferer may need to remain in the hospital for several days while he or she recovers. A TBI patient may also need ongoing medical care after leaving the hospital. These medical treatments quickly add up. Fortunately, workers’ compensation may cover medical bills as well as a portion of your lost income after a TBI.

Getting the Compensation You Need May Be Challenging Without Help

Recovering compensation after a traumatic brain injury is not always as simple as filing the workers’ compensation claim and receiving financial relief. The workers’ compensation insurance company may argue that you do not need as much time off of work as you actually need or undervalue your claim. The insurance company may try to get you to settle for a low offer or even deny your claim entirely. If you find yourself in a situation like this, reach out to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact a Santa Clara County Workers Compensation Lawyer

If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury at work, contact Cramer & Martinez, LLP for help with your workers’ compensation claim. Our team of knowledgeable Morgan Hill workers’ compensation attorneys knows what you are going through. We can help you with filing a claim, negotiating a settlement, appealing a denied claim, and more. Call us at 408-848-1113 today for a free consult.

Source:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557